The new national jersey featuring the King Protea on the left and the Springbok on the right should appeal to all South Africans, says Andy Marinos.

Springbok captain John Smit and host of other contracted Boks wore the jersey at the recording for an advertisement for the coming British & Irish Lions Series which will be flighted on SuperSport this Saturday.

Marinos, Saru’s acting MD, says the changes to the jersey were inevitable.

‘We decided to be proactive rather than reactive and not wait for the promulgation of the pending National Colours act,’ he said. ‘Our leaders met with government as we were fully aware that the King Protea is the national symbol and that it had to be properly incorporated into the Springbok jersey.

‘Obviously modifying something that has such strong emotional symbolism as the Springbok jersey generates a lot of emotion, but team will still be known as the Springboks as we realise the importance and strength of the brand, both locally and abroad.

‘Having seen the new jersey, we’re actually very excited as it underlines the fact that we are the team of all the people of South Africa.’